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Joe Cole’s ears are burning for England
 In the mix of call ups, teams of the year and the Premier League reaching its pinnacle, Joe Cole’s fortunes of flying to South Africa remain somewhat of a mystery ahead of England’s campaign, with World Cup 2010 betting odds of 2.25-1 for his inclusion. The man who Pelé once claimed, “has the skills of a Brazilian”, Cole has appeared in two World Cups.
His most memorable contribution came in Germany 2006, achieving his international zenith against Sweden where he scored a rapturous volley from 35 yards and assisted the second for Steven Gerrard. When fit and in form, the tricky winger poses a genuine threat but has endured a cumbersome season. After lengthy spells out, Cole returned to action struggling to recover form and indeed, a natural starting position in Chelsea’s changing formations and erratic managerial situation. Although considered as a natural left midfielder, Cole has shown his versatility playing on both wings and as the classic Number 10 on the tip of the diamond.
Sparse positive outings since mid January against Sunderland and Manchester City have shown that Cole can make a difference. His recent goal against Manchester United (his first since November) sent out cries of urgency to Fabio Capello, but as Cole chases the double with Chelsea, he maintains that England call ups rely on his own injury status. In 2006, England looked to Cole as a rare product, a natural left winger of which they were short of to bring balance to a very technically dry midfield. This year however, England’s options on the left wing are abundant, Ashley Young has made strides forward, James Milner’s stock has risen rapidly after being named the PFA Young Player of the Year and Gareth Barry will have no qualms in starting for the Three Lions. Joe Cole recently stated, “You can not talk yourself into an England squad”, and has strived to keep clear of injuries but has been reduced to a substitute under Carlo Ancelotti’s reign.
Often drifting in from the wings towards the centre, and the talent for sneaking in between the centre half and full-back, has prompted questions as to whether wide right is his best position. Looking comfortable on either wing with either foot, Cole keeps the ball grounded, often popping up with an assist or other significant input. A rare starter, Joe Cole’s eager substitute vision could prove useful in South Africa. England’s sturdy aerial threat has always been valuable, but with Beckham’s crosses missing, Capello could look to utilise Cole’s tricky play. The prospect of a player so injury prone starting is doubtful but Cole’s performances could be formation dependent. His outings for Chelsea have looked positive after the west Londoner’s changed to a 4-3-3 shedding the diamond. His offensive minded play was complemented by supporting Drogba or Anelka and could be replicated with Wayne Rooney for England.
Joe Cole’s relationship with the national side has reached an impasse, often relying on substitute cameos. After warming the Chelsea bench for so long, Cole will hope to go to South Africa, but will he make the starting XI or watch enviously as his chance of an international swansong flies away?
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